SC Reinstates Tree-Felling Curbs in TTZ
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
- ▶
BEFORE (2019-2025): State and local authorities could permit tree felling on non-forest and private lands within the TTZ without seeking direct approval from the Supreme Court. NOW (Post-March 2025): Prior permission from the Supreme Court is mandatory before felling any trees on these lands.
- ▶
BEFORE: Judicial oversight over private and non-forest land clearing in the TTZ was relaxed to facilitate regional development and infrastructure projects. NOW: Strict judicial scrutiny has been restored to ensure every tree-felling request is evaluated for its specific environmental impact on the monument.
- ▶
BEFORE: Compensatory afforestation and mitigation plans were primarily monitored by local or state forest departments. NOW: The Supreme Court directly oversees the necessity of felling and the adequacy of compensatory environmental measures.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
Correct Statement(s)Which of the following statements regarding the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ) is/are correct? 1. The TTZ is an eco-sensitive area spanning approximately 10,400 square kilometers, established to protect the Taj Mahal from industrial pollution. 2. Following the March 2025 Supreme Court judgment, the authority to approve tree felling on non-forest and private lands in the TTZ is vested exclusively with the State Government.